Hot Cocoa

Well, the snow has begun to come, making it the perfect time to enjoy some homemade hot cocoa. Sure, you could just tear open a package or scoop some mix out of a canister and add boiling water, but it won't be anywhere near as delicious as hot cocoa from scratch. There are many different recipes for hot cocoa or hot chocolate, all varying in taste, serving size, preparation technique, and simplicity. Some recipes serve one, others serve twenty-one. Some use the microwave, some use the stovetop. Whatever recipe you choose is up to you! Hot chocolate originated from drinking chocolate, which was the first form of chocolate that gained popularity for consumption. Before then, chocolate existed only as cocoa beans, which were much too bitter to eat on their own. Drinking chocolate is basically melted chocolate, often with additions such as sugar, milk, and vanilla, and is very rich and luxurious. It became increasingly popular in Europe served warm as an indulgent alternative to tea or coffee. This drink eventually transformed into hot chocolate or hot cocoa, which became very commercialized and readily-available. Drinking chocolate isn't very popular today, but you if you get the chance, you should try it; it's divine!

Basic Microwave Hot Cocoa For One
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
pinch salt
2 teaspoons cold milk
additional milk

In a mug, mix the sugar, cocoa, and salt. Stir in the two teaspoons of cold milk until smooth. Add more milk to fill the cup. Microwave on HIGH (100%) for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, until hot. Stir to blend.

Rich and Indulgent Microwave Hot Cocoa For One
Follow the same procedure as above, using 2 tablespoons each of cocoa and sugar. Add 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Slimmed Down Microwave Hot Cocoa For One
Follow the same procedure as above, replacing sugar with the equivalent of a no-calorie sweetener. Use fat-free milk.

GREAT ADDITIONS AND TOPPINGS: Of course, hot cocoa is very popular served with marshmallows and candy canes. Adding little chocolate bars or chocolate chips is also very good. Hot cocoa is delicious garnished with whipped cream, chocolate or caramel sauce, sprinkles, a dusting of icing sugar or cocoa, or a maraschino cherry.
Additional flavorings for hot cocoa include vanilla extract, instant coffee, ground cinnamon,  mint extract, orange extract, maple extract, or a splash or liquor. 
Hot chocolate is great for dipping Christmas cookies!